St. Christopher Truckers Relief Fund unveils nationwide survey to highlight health and financial challenges facing truck drivers

The St. Christopher Truckers Relief Fund (SCF) recently announced the results of a new nationwide survey examining the health and financial struggles of America’s truck drivers. The nonprofit organization, which provides financial assistance and health programs for professional drivers, conducted the survey to better understand public awareness of drivers’ challenges.

Key findings:

• Income loss: 37% of Americans believe truckers lose $10,000–$24,999 in income if sidelined for just one month due to illness or injury.
• Lack of paid sick leave: 43% were unaware that most independent drivers lack paid sick time or leave benefits.
• Health concerns: Nearly 40% of drivers are believed to face serious metabolic and cardiovascular health issues, including diabetes and heart disease.
• Family sacrifices: 39% of Americans personally know a truck driver who spends four or more days away from home per trip, with most drivers getting only 1–6 days at home between long hauls.

SCF supports drivers through direct financial assistance and health and wellness programs, including preventive screenings, smoking cessation, and chronic disease management, helping drivers recover and return to work.

“With 72% of the U.S. supply chain dependent on trucks, driver health and financial stability directly impact logistics resilience,” Courtney Niemann, executive director of SCF, said. “Every mile, every delivery, and every long night on the road—America’s truck drivers go above and beyond to keep our country running. At SCF, we are committed to stepping in when illness or injury forces a driver off the road so families don’t fall through the cracks.”